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EFCC Arraigns Chinese, Filipino Nationals For Alleged Cybercrimes In Lagos

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has arraigned several Chinese and Filipino nationals...

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has arraigned several Chinese and Filipino nationals before the Federal High Court in Lagos on charges of cybercrimes, cyber-terrorism, identity theft, and possession of documents containing false pretenses.

The foreigners, totaling 45, were arraigned separately before Justices Olayinka Faji, Chukwujekwu Aneke, Deinde Dipeolu, and Alexander Owoeye. Ten appeared before Justice Faji, six before Justice Aneke, 16 before Justice Dipeolu, and 13 Filipino nationals before Justice Owoeye.

Upon arraignment, all defendants pleaded not guilty. The justices ordered their remand at correctional facilities pending the hearing and determination of their bail applications.

The EFCC accused the defendants of employing Nigerian youths for identity theft and other computer-related fraud, actions that violate Sections 18 and 27 of the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, Etc.) Act, 2015 (amended in 2024).

Some of the key defendants include Cherry De Leon (aka Yesh De Leon), Khurram Shanzad, Fernad Fu Fang (aka Kim), and Rex Jose Dilag (aka Madison), among others.

The EFCC stated that the suspects were arrested on December 10, 2024, at a hideout on Oyin Jolayemi Street, Victoria Island, Lagos, following credible intelligence.

They are accused of orchestrating a criminal syndicate involved in identity theft, romance scams, and cryptocurrency fraud, with the intent to destabilize Nigeria’s economic structure.

Trial dates have been scheduled for various sessions in February and March, with the earliest set to begin on February 7, 2025.

The EFCC reiterated that the charges are punishable under Sections 18 and 27 of the Cybercrimes Act and Section 39(2)(b) of the EFCC (Establishment) Act, 2004.

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